THOUSANDS of residents in East Cambridgeshire are travelling free on buses, thanks to the introduction of a new concessionary fares scheme. The scheme, introduced across the county last month, has seen more than 2,000 people apply for bus passes in a sing

THOUSANDS of residents in East Cambridgeshire are travelling free on buses, thanks to the introduction of a new concessionary fares scheme.

The scheme, introduced across the county last month, has seen more than 2,000 people apply for bus passes in a single month - that is nearly 1,500 more than in the whole of October and November last year.

The new concessionary scheme, a joint initiative between East Cambridgeshire District Council (ECDC) and Cambridgeshire County Council, provides free travel on local bus journeys within Cambridgeshire and Peterborough for those aged 60 and over, or eligible people with disabilities.

David Archer, executive director for Development Services, said: "The number of people who are using buses in our district had been rising over the last year, but the increase since we implemented the new scheme in October is staggering. We are proud to be part of an initiative which is bringing genuine freedom to so many people and would encourage anyone else who is eligible to come forward."

INFO: Passes can be used only after 9.30am Monday to Friday and all day on Saturdays, Sundays and bank holidays. For information call Chris Beer on 01353 665555.